ABSTRACT
It is demonstrated that hospitals are information-dependent and that there is need for integration of information generated and gathered through their subsystems. This paper discusses recommendations of the Matheson Report for an integrated information management system which would link these subsystems. The library's statement of mission, means for self-assessment, and analysis of information needs and uses are explored. Future directions with examples of new roles for the library are outlined.
Subject(s)
Information Systems , Libraries, Hospital , Management Information Systems , Decision Making , Libraries, Hospital/trendsABSTRACT
The Northeastern Consortium for Health Information's Ad Hoc Committee on Online Statistics conducted a three-month MEDLARS utilization study in New England. Mailing lists from the New England Regional Medical Library Service and the New England Online Users Group were used to solicit participants. Seventy-four libraries submitted data on 8,899 MEDLARS searches. Each search was described by (1) type of institution; (2) occupation of requester; (3) purpose of search; (4) whether requester was a new or repeat user; (5) if the requester was from inside or outside the online center's institution; (6) fees-for-service; and (7) choice of vendor or vendors for accessing MEDLARS. Overall, patient care and research were the most frequently stated purposes of search; 44% of the searches were initiated by physicians.
